Former Nigeria international Yakubu Aiyegbeni has spoken about his enduring affection for Everton describing his time at the club as the most memorable period of his career.
The former striker, who scored 33 goals in 107 appearances for the Merseyside club, said the connection with supporters played a decisive role in shaping his feelings.
“The welcome from the fans meant so much to me,” he told Everton’s official website. “I was with my daughter, and for her to see that they still love me is something I will never forget.”
Yakubu. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Yakubu recently returned to Merseyside, where he was greeted warmly by fans near the club’s new stadium site, with chants of “Feed the Yak and he’ll score” echoing during Everton’s 3-0 win over Chelsea.
Reflecting on his arrival from Middlesbrough in 2007, the former Super Eagles forward said his bond with Everton was immediate.
“Signing for Everton was a great moment. I fell in love from day on, it’s a special club. We call it the ‘People’s Club’. The fans are so friendly” he said.
Yakubu added that his time at Goodison Park remains central to those memories.
“Goodison Park back then, we made memories. I think I played my best football here.”
Photo Credit: Getty Images
The Nigerian striker also holds a unique place in Premier League history, as one of only five players to score hat-tricks for three different clubs.
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He achieved the feat with Portsmouth, Everton and Blackburn Rovers, joining a select group that includes Nicolas Anelka, Kevin Campbell, Les Ferdinand and Teddy Sheringham.
At international level, Yakubu earned 57 caps for Nigeria and scored 21 goals, placing him among the country’s leading scorers behind names such as Segun Odegbami and record-holder Rashidi Yekini.
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Despite retiring from professional football, he says his connection to Everton remains unchanged. “Even now, I still support them. I just love the place,” he said.
